In 2015 the community energy sector conducted its first impact report which served as a baseline for our metrics and impact. We knew the sector had been growing but this is the first time its contribution has been measured robustly.
And what a result! 55 groups of various sizes completed the survey:
- More than half of these groups were established since 2015, suggesting the sector has doubled in size over 8 years
- The groups completed 730 projects, equating to almost 12MW of renewable generation in the last 12 months and reducing emissions by 14,000 tonnes of CO2eq per year.
- The groups represent 2,600 active members, 44,000 supporters and have a social reach of 96,000 community members.
- The groups have raised $74.5m for energy infrastructure – twice as much as was recorded for the entire 10 year period 2006 to 2015.
- In-kind support and volunteer hours represent a further $6m per year in value.
- Climate change, community participation in the renewable energy transition and increased energy reliability and self-sufficiency are the top three reasons for a community energy group to form.
- Regional and remote areas represent a significant portion of community energy activity.
You can read the write up by authors, Community Power Agency and download the full report here.